Ideally suited for families looking to maximise their time in the islands, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort has opened in the Maldives.
The second JW Marriott resort in the Maldives, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort is nestled in Kaafu Atoll’s largest lagoon and is conveniently located just 15 minutes by boat from Velana International Airport, meaning no overnights in Male or seaplane flights.
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This luxurious retreat offers an idyllic sanctuary to recharge the mind, body, and spirit in this tropical oceanic paradise. With 80 thoughtfully designed private pool villas, including 47 overwater pool villas, the resort blends traditional island aesthetics with contemporary luxury to create a harmonious connection with nature.
Paradise Found
A haven for relaxation, each villa boasts expansive terraces, uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, and access to pristine lagoons. Perched above the turquoise waters, the Three-Bedroom Ocean Residence offers an unparalleled sanctuary, blending luxury with breathtaking views for a truly exceptional experience. Tailored for families or groups of friends, this elegant residence provides a refined space to connect and create lasting memories, all while enjoying uninterrupted panoramic ocean views.
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Envisioned by acclaimed architect Cuneyt Bukulmez of Turkey-based Atolye4N, the resort’s villa design artfully blends local Maldivian touches with sleek, modern elements drawing inspiration from the enchanting island.
The arrival jetty, inspired by the graceful flight of the Maakana heron, sets the tone for the resort’s design. The villas echo traditional Maldivian ‘Gedhoru’ huts, with kajan roofs and vibrant turquoise doors, complemented by a calming palette of neutral tones. Thoughtful nods to Maldivian lacquerware crafts and contrasting elements are seamlessly woven throughout, creating a serene and harmonious retreat.
The resort also fosters a deep connection with nature, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open to opalescent ocean views, while open-air showers and private pools create an intimate oasis. Crafted with natural materials such as timber and stone, the resort’s design pays homage to the raw beauty of the island nation, offering an elevated experience of luxury, tranquillity, and mindful relaxation.
Time to Dine
The resort’s seven distinct dining venues and bars offer an extraordinary culinary journey, featuring flavours from around the world and thoughtfully sourced ingredients, inviting guests to indulge in a celebration of taste and craftsmanship. Veyo features an international menu while Wahoo, the infinity pool bar, provides a laid-back yet refined atmosphere where guests can enjoy refreshing beverages and aromatic dishes. At Athiri, the resort’s signature steakhouse, guests will be captivated by its stunning two-story design, featuring a dramatic curved roof inspired by the rise and fall of ocean waves, while Nikkei, one floor above offers a vibrant bar experience with craft cocktails and light bites inspired by the fusion of Peruvian cuisine and global influences.
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At fine dining venue Riva, guests can indulge in a sophisticated reinterpretation of Indian Ocean heritage, and for those seeking an intentional dining experience, Pure showcases fresh, locally sourced ingredients crafted into exquisite dishes that honour the island’s natural bounty. Many ingredients such as rosemary, mint, basil, thyme and sage are harvested directly from the JW Garden, offering an authentic farm-to-table experience. Finally, Tito’s is a charming deli and patisserie that offers a captivating convergence of visual artistry and exquisite flavours.
An Eye to Wellness
At the overwater Spa by JW, guests can find renewal through exclusive treatments featuring BABOR’s precision skincare products — a first in the Maldives. The signature treatment, Ocean Bliss, crafted in collaboration with BABOR, highlights the company’s most prestigious anti-ageing skincare range, SeaCreation, enriched with precious active ingredients sourced from the deep sea, delivering a transformative experience that embodies the best of precision skincare and island-inspired relaxation. Wellness enthusiasts can also enjoy sunrise yoga, a state-of-the-art fitness centre with ocean views, and a lap pool.
Fun for the Whole Family
Guests seeking adventure can participate in marine life activities through snorkelling, diving, and tailored ocean excursions. Thrill-seekers can explore dolphin safaris or parasailing, while those craving stillness can sail into the sunset on a cruise.
JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort also embraces the joy of togetherness with its signature Family by JW programme, offering thoughtfully curated experiences that inspire families to create lasting memories. Catering to guests of all ages, the resort features a dedicated Kids’ and Teens’ Club, a colourful playground, and a child-friendly swimming pool, ensuring that younger guests are entertained and engaged.
The JW Kids’ Club invites children to explore, learn, and play through a variety of enriching activities designed to educate and inspire. Families can bond over unique experiences, such as interactive cooking classes, where participants create culinary masterpieces using fresh, sustainably grown produce from the JW Garden. This tranquil sanctuary not only provides ingredients for the resort’s exceptional cuisine but also serves as a space for guests to reconnect with nature through the nurturing practice of gardening. From vibrant adventures to shared moments of creativity and discovery, the Family by JW programme ensures an unforgettable journey filled with joy and cherished memories for every family member.
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Planning for Tomorrow
Embodying its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, the resort is also part of a groundbreaking collaboration with INVENA. Motivated by shifting tides and global warming challenges faced by island nations, this initiative introduces a pioneering 30-meter-long underwater coastal structure, designed in collaboration with the Self-Assembly Lab, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, to attenuate wave action and combat beach erosion. The installation will also foster vibrant marine ecosystems by creating a reef habitat that attracts diverse fish and coral. Guests will have the unique opportunity to interact with this innovative project, contributing to scientific efforts addressing climate challenges.
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